ROCKY MOUNT, N.C. (WTVD) — When you talk to Clarence First you can tell he is a man of faith.

First is a manager at K & W Cafeteria next to the destruction left by Hurricane Helene.

“God got us through,” he said. “For that tornado to hit right behind us and not hit that building, I thank him for covering us.”

First, Eyewitness News walked through the terrifying moments when a tornado touched down just steps from his workplace. He stood in the buffet line with some employees and asked all customers to seek shelter in the toilets.

“It happened so quickly. It was a matter of seconds. I heard this loud bang… a booming noise and the lights went out,” he said. “One of the customers started praying. The employees screamed. Many cried.”

According to First, power was out in the area for almost 24 hours. He showed a lamp dangling at the entrance to K & W, that was minor damage compared to the devastation behind the restaurant.

SEE ALSO: Helene blamed three deaths in North Carolina, historic flooding and at least four tornadoes

The storm system swept through Rocky Mount’s business district along Tiffany Boulevard, which remains closed. The damage includes blown out car windows, overturned garbage containers, a roof collapse and the complete destruction of a medical supply store.

“When I saw it yesterday I thought, wow. I prayed there was no one I knew in the building,” Robert Green said.

He shopped at the medical supply store and drove from Whitakers to take a closer look at the damage. Green took photos to add to his collection at home.

“That will rise even if it came through Dortches and hit the pharmaceutical factory. I take pictures like that,” he said.

According to the city of Rocky Mount, “Police will monitor the properties to ensure the safety of the area.” Reconstruction could likely take months.

The effects of Helene can also be felt and seen from east to western North Carolina. Federal authorities offer advice for residents.

“If it is safe to do so, document any damage. Take photos and report it to your insurance company,” said Erik Hooks, FEMA deputy administrator.

RELATED: At least 56 dead and millions without power after Helene’s deadly march through the southeastern US